Best Dog Remedies for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

For dog upset stomach and diarrhea, start with a 12-24 hour fast (water only), then introduce a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. Ensure constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 24-48 hours, or if your dog shows severe signs like lethargy or bloody stool, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Seeing your beloved dog experience an upset stomach or diarrhea can be truly distressing for any pet parent. It’s a common issue, and while often mild and treatable at home, it can sometimes signal a more serious underlying problem. The good news is that many instances of digestive upset can be managed effectively with simple, practical steps. You’re in the right place to learn how to soothe your furry friend’s tummy and understand when it’s time to seek professional help. Let’s walk through the best remedies, preventative measures, and crucial warning signs to ensure your dog gets back to feeling their happy, healthy self.

Best Dog Remedies for Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

An upset stomach or diarrhea in dogs can range from a minor inconvenience to a serious health concern. Knowing how to react, what home remedies are safe and effective, and when to consult a veterinarian is crucial for your dog’s well-being. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently address your dog’s digestive woes, focusing on practical, vet-approved strategies.

Understanding Your Dog’s Upset Stomach and Diarrhea

Before diving into remedies, it’s helpful to understand why your dog might be experiencing digestive issues. Dogs are naturally curious creatures, and their stomachs can sometimes pay the price for their adventurous appetites.

Common Causes of Digestive Upset:

• Dietary Indiscretion: Eating something they shouldn’t, like garbage, spoiled food, or rich human foods. This is often called “garbage gut.”
• Sudden Diet Changes: Switching dog food too quickly without a gradual transition.
• Stress or Anxiety: Changes in routine, new environments, or separation anxiety can manifest as digestive issues.
• Parasites: Intestinal worms (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms) or protozoa (Giardia, Coccidia) can cause chronic diarrhea.
• Bacterial or Viral Infections: Such as Salmonella, E. coli, Parvovirus, or Canine Distemper.
• Food Allergies or Intolerances: Reactions to specific ingredients in their food.
• Medication Side Effects: Some medications can cause gastrointestinal upset.
• Underlying Medical Conditions: Pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), kidney disease, liver disease, or even certain cancers can cause chronic digestive problems.

Recognizing Symptoms:

It’s important to observe your dog closely. Symptoms can vary but commonly include:

• Vomiting (with or without food)
• Diarrhea (loose, watery, or mucous-filled stools)
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Abdominal pain or discomfort (e.g., hunching, reluctance to move)
• Gurgling stomach noises
• Excessive gas
• Dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, loss of skin elasticity)
• Fever
• Bloody stool (bright red or black/tarry)

Immediate Home Remedies for Mild Cases

For mild, uncomplicated cases of upset stomach or diarrhea where your dog is otherwise acting normal, these home remedies can often provide relief.

1. Fasting: Giving the Gut a Rest

One of the first and most effective steps is to withhold food for 12 to 24 hours. This allows your dog’s digestive system to rest and recover.

• How to do it: Remove all food. Provide constant access to fresh water.
• Important: Do not fast puppies, very old dogs, or dogs with underlying health conditions (like diabetes) without veterinary consultation, as they are more susceptible to hypoglycemia.

2. Hydration: Preventing Dehydration

Diarrhea and vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration, which is dangerous.

• Offer fresh water: Always ensure your dog has access to clean, fresh water.
• Ice cubes: If your dog is drinking too much too fast and vomiting, offer small ice cubes to lick.
• Electrolyte solutions: In some cases, your vet might recommend a veterinary-specific electrolyte solution to help replenish lost minerals. Do not give human sports drinks without vet approval.

3. The Bland Diet: Gentle on the Tummy

After the fasting period, or if your vet advises against fasting, introduce a bland diet. This means easily digestible foods that won’t irritate the stomach further.

Boiled Chicken and White Rice: The Gold Standard

This combination is highly recommended due to its low fat content and easy digestibility.

• Preparation:
  1. Boil boneless, skinless chicken breast until fully cooked.
  2. Shred or chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
  3. Cook plain white rice (not instant or brown rice, which has too much fiber).
  4. Mix one part chicken with two parts rice.
• Feeding: Offer small, frequent meals (3-4 times a day) for a few days. Gradually increase the portion size as your dog improves.

Other Bland Diet Options:

While chicken and rice are the most common, other options can also be beneficial:

• Plain Canned Pumpkin: Not pumpkin pie filling! Plain, 100% pure canned pumpkin (not spiced) is a fantastic source of fiber. A tablespoon or two mixed with food can help firm up stools.
• Boiled Lean Ground Beef: If chicken is not tolerated or unavailable, boiled lean ground beef (drained of all fat) can be substituted.
• Boiled Sweet Potato: Mashed boiled sweet potato can also be a good source of digestible carbohydrates and fiber.
• Low-Fat Cottage Cheese: In very small amounts, some dogs tolerate low-fat cottage cheese, which provides protein and beneficial bacteria.

Here’s a quick guide to bland diet ingredients:

Ingredient	Preparation	Benefits	Notes
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast	Boiled, shredded/chopped	Lean protein, easy to digest	Mix 1 part chicken to 2 parts rice
Plain White Rice	Boiled, plain	Easily digestible carbohydrate	Avoid brown rice (too much fiber)
Plain Canned Pumpkin	100% pure, unsweetened	Soluble fiber, aids stool consistency	1-2 tablespoons per meal, avoid pie filling
Boiled Lean Ground Beef	Boiled, thoroughly drained of fat	Alternative lean protein	Ensure all fat is removed
Boiled Sweet Potato	Boiled, mashed	Digestible carbohydrate, fiber	Offer in moderation

Transitioning Back to Regular Food:

Once your dog’s stool has been normal for at least 24-48 hours, you can gradually reintroduce their regular dog food.

• Day 1-2: 75% bland diet, 25% regular food.
• Day 3-4: 50% bland diet, 50% regular food.
• Day 5-6: 25% bland diet, 75% regular food.
• Day 7: 100% regular food.

Monitor your dog closely during this transition. If symptoms return, revert to the bland diet and consult your vet.

Supporting Gut Health with Probiotics and Supplements

Probiotics can be a valuable tool in restoring gut balance after an upset stomach or diarrhea.

Probiotics: Restoring Good Bacteria

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They help replenish the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut, which can be disrupted during digestive upset.

• How they help: Improve digestion, strengthen the immune system, and help firm up stools.
• Types: Look for veterinary-specific probiotic supplements. Human probiotics may not contain the strains beneficial for dogs.
• Recommended Product: Many veterinarians recommend products like Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets FortiFlora Probiotic Supplement for Dogs, which is widely available and effective for acute diarrhea. Always follow the dosage instructions on the product or as advised by your vet.

Other Supplements (Use with Caution and Vet Guidance):

• Kaolin-Pectin: Some over-the-counter remedies for dogs contain kaolin and pectin, which can help absorb toxins and soothe the digestive tract. However, always consult your vet before administering any medication, even OTC.
• Activated Charcoal: This can be used in cases of suspected poisoning to absorb toxins. However, it should *only* be administered under direct veterinary supervision, as incorrect use can be harmful.

When to See the Vet – Critical Warning Signs

While home remedies are effective for mild cases, it’s crucial to know when digestive upset warrants immediate veterinary attention. Delaying professional care can lead to serious complications.

Seek Immediate Veterinary Care If Your Dog Exhibits Any of the Following:

• Severe or Persistent Vomiting: Vomiting multiple times within a few hours, or vomiting that continues for more than 24 hours.
• Severe or Persistent Diarrhea: Diarrhea that is very watery, explosive, or continues for more than 24-48 hours.
• Bloody Stool: Bright red blood (hematochezia) or black, tarry stool (melena) indicates bleeding in the digestive tract.
• Lethargy or Weakness: Your dog is unusually tired, unresponsive, or has difficulty standing.
• Signs of Dehydration: Dry, tacky gums; sunken eyes; loss of skin elasticity (skin tenting).
• Abdominal Pain or Bloating: Whining, hunching, reluctance to be touched on the abdomen, or a visibly distended belly.
• Fever: A rectal temperature above 102.5°F (39.2°C).
• Known Ingestion of Toxins: If you suspect your dog has eaten something poisonous (e.g., chocolate, medications, toxic plants).
• Puppies, Senior Dogs, or Dogs with Underlying Conditions: These dogs are more vulnerable to rapid dehydration and complications.
• No Improvement: If home remedies do not lead to improvement within 24-48 hours.

Here’s a helpful table to guide your actions based on symptoms:

Symptom Severity	Accompanying Signs	Recommended Action
Mild Diarrhea/Soft Stool	Otherwise active, eating, drinking, no vomiting	12-24 hr fast (water only), then bland diet. Monitor closely.
Occasional Vomiting (1-2 times)	Otherwise active, no other symptoms	12-24 hr fast (water only), then bland diet. Monitor closely.
Persistent Vomiting (3+ times in a few hours)	Lethargy, loss of appetite, dehydration signs	Contact Vet Immediately
Severe/Watery Diarrhea	Lethargy, dehydration, not eating	Contact Vet Immediately
Bloody or Black/Tarry Stool	Any accompanying symptoms	Contact Vet Immediately
Abdominal Pain/Bloating	Whining, hunching, distended belly	Contact Vet Immediately
Known Toxin Ingestion	Vomiting, drooling, tremors, etc.	Contact Vet Immediately

Preventing Future Upset Stomachs and Diarrhea

Prevention is always better than cure. By implementing a few key strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of your dog experiencing digestive issues.

1. Consistent Diet and Slow Transitions:

• Stick to one high-quality food: Avoid frequent changes in dog food.
• Gradual food transitions: When changing brands or formulas, do so over 7-10 days, gradually mixing increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old.

2. Prevent Scavenging and Access to Harmful Items:

• Supervise outdoors: Keep a close eye on your dog during walks to prevent them from eating garbage, dead animals, or toxic plants.
• Secure trash cans: Ensure all household garbage is inaccessible.
• Keep harmful substances out of reach: This includes human medications, cleaning supplies, and certain human foods (e.g., chocolate, grapes, onions).

3. Regular Parasite Control:

• Routine deworming: Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for regular deworming and fecal exams to check for intestinal parasites.
• Flea and tick prevention: While not directly related to stomach upset, overall parasite control contributes to general health.

4. Stress Reduction:

• Maintain routine: Dogs thrive on predictability.
• Provide mental and physical exercise: A tired dog is often a less anxious dog.
• Consider calming aids: For highly anxious dogs, discuss options like pheromone diffusers, calming supplements, or behavioral training with your vet.

5. Appropriate Treats and Chews:

• Limit human food: Avoid giving table scraps, especially fatty or spicy foods.
• Choose digestible treats: Opt for high-quality, easily digestible dog treats.
• Monitor chew toys: Ensure chew toys are safe and won’t be ingested in large pieces.

For families considering bringing a new furry member into their home, understanding their needs and ensuring a healthy environment is key. You might find this helpful resource on 15 Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families useful in making the right choice for a happy and healthy pet.

Understanding Common Causes in Detail

Let’s delve deeper into some of the frequent culprits behind canine stomach upset to better inform your preventative strategies and discussions with your vet.

Dietary Indiscretion (“Garbage Gut”)

This is perhaps the most common cause. Dogs are opportunistic eaters and will often consume things they shouldn’t, from leftover food in the trash to rotting items found on a walk. The sudden introduction of new bacteria, high fat content, or indigestible material can lead to acute gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines). Symptoms usually appear within hours of ingestion.

Food Allergies or Intolerances

Unlike dietary indiscretion, which is an acute reaction to a single event, food allergies or intolerances involve an ongoing adverse reaction to specific ingredients in your dog’s regular diet. Common allergens include beef, dairy, wheat, chicken, and soy. Symptoms can include chronic diarrhea, vomiting, skin issues (itching, redness), and ear infections. Diagnosing food allergies often requires a strict elimination diet under veterinary guidance.

Parasites (Worms, Giardia, Coccidia)

Internal parasites are a frequent cause of chronic or recurrent diarrhea, especially in puppies.

• Intestinal Worms: Roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms can irritate the intestinal lining, leading to diarrhea, weight loss, and a dull coat.
• Giardia: A microscopic protozoan parasite that causes foul-smelling, often mucousy diarrhea. It’s common in dogs that drink from contaminated water sources.
• Coccidia: Another microscopic parasite, particularly common in puppies and stressed adult dogs, causing watery diarrhea, sometimes with blood.

Regular fecal exams and deworming are essential for prevention and treatment.

Bacterial Infections (Salmonella, E. coli)

Dogs can contract bacterial infections from contaminated food (raw meat, spoiled food), water, or contact with infected animals. These infections can cause severe gastroenteritis, with symptoms including fever, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and lethargy. Prompt veterinary care and antibiotics are often necessary.

Viral Infections (Parvovirus, Distemper)

Highly contagious and often life-threatening, especially in puppies, viral infections like Parvovirus and Canine Distemper cause severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, fever, and extreme lethargy. Vaccination is the best form of prevention. If you suspect a viral infection, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Stress/Anxiety

Just like humans, dogs can experience “stress colitis,” where anxiety or major changes in their environment (moving, new pet, owner absence) can trigger diarrhea. This is often characterized by sudden onset, sometimes with mucus or a small amount of blood, and typically resolves once the stressor is removed or the dog adapts.

Medication Side Effects

Many medications, including antibiotics, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and chemotherapy drugs, can cause gastrointestinal upset as a side effect. If your dog is on medication and develops digestive issues, contact your vet to discuss potential adjustments.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Chronic or recurrent digestive problems can be a symptom of more serious underlying health issues, such as:

• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, often triggered by a high-fat meal, causing severe vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A chronic condition where the gastrointestinal tract becomes inflamed, leading to persistent vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and appetite changes.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: These conditions can cause a buildup of toxins that irritate the digestive system, leading to vomiting and diarrhea.
• Addison’s Disease: A hormonal disorder that can cause chronic, waxing and waning gastrointestinal signs.

These conditions require a thorough veterinary diagnosis and long-term management.

Authoritative External Resources

For more in-depth information on specific conditions or general canine health, consider these trusted resources:

• American Kennel Club (AKC) – Dog Diarrhea: Causes and Treatments
• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (for suspected poisoning)
• University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine – Client Education

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I give my dog human medicine for diarrhea?

A: No, generally you should not give your dog human medication without explicit instructions from your veterinarian. Many human medicines are toxic to dogs, and even those that are safe in certain doses can have different effects or dosages for dogs compared to humans. Always consult your vet first.

Q: How long should a dog be on a bland diet?

A: A bland diet is typically recommended for 3-5 days, or until your dog’s stool has been firm and normal for at least 24-48 hours. After that, gradually transition them back to their regular food over several days to avoid a relapse.

Q: What’s the difference between plain pumpkin and pumpkin pie filling?

A: Plain canned pumpkin is 100% pure pumpkin and is an excellent source of fiber, which can help regulate digestion. Pumpkin pie filling, however, contains added sugars, spices (like nutmeg, which is toxic to dogs), and other ingredients that can worsen an upset stomach. Always use plain, unsweetened canned pumpkin.

Q: How do I know if my dog is dehydrated?

A: Signs of dehydration include dry, tacky gums, sunken eyes, and reduced skin elasticity (when you gently pull up the skin on their back, it should snap back quickly; if it stays tented, they might be dehydrated). Lethargy and weakness are also common. If you suspect dehydration, contact your vet immediately.

Q: Are there any over-the-counter remedies I can use?

A: Some over-the-counter products containing kaolin and pectin are formulated for dogs and can help firm stools. However, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before administering any OTC remedy to ensure it’s appropriate for your dog’s specific condition and to get the correct dosage.

Q: When is it okay to feed my dog after vomiting?

A: If your dog has vomited once or twice but is otherwise active and alert, you can withhold food for 12-24 hours (water only). If they don’t vomit again during this period, you can then slowly introduce small amounts of a bland diet. If vomiting is persistent or severe, do not offer food and contact your vet immediately.

Q: Can stress cause diarrhea in dogs?

A: Yes, absolutely. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact a dog’s digestive system, leading to what is often called “stress colitis.” Changes in routine, separation anxiety, new environments, or even loud noises can trigger digestive upset. Addressing the underlying stressor is key to resolving this type of diarrhea.

Conclusion

Dealing with your dog’s upset stomach or diarrhea can be concerning, but armed with the right knowledge, you can often provide effective relief at home. Starting with a brief fast, followed by a bland diet, and ensuring proper hydration are foundational steps. Probiotics can also play a vital role in restoring gut health. However, always remember that your veterinarian is your best resource. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying signs, do not hesitate to seek professional medical advice. By being vigilant and proactive, you can help your furry companion recover quickly and keep their tail wagging.